There’s something magical about a highlight that melts into the skin instead of sitting on top of it.

When a powder can mimic that glossy, liquid sheen? That’s when you know you’ve found a gem. After testing plenty over the past year, these two highlighters stand out above the rest for giving that wet-skin, glossy radiance without the fuss of a liquid formula!

1. Catrice Highlighter

This little drugstore treasure has been in my collection for over a year, and it continues to impress every single time I reach for it. It blends effortlessly, can be built up from a gentle glow to a full beam, and genuinely looks like it melts right into the skin. For the price, nothing else even comes close. It’s reliable, smooth, and gives that soft-focus liquid effect while still being a powder.

2. Rare Beauty Highlighter

Rare Beauty takes things up a level with a feather-light powder texture that practically disappears onto the skin while leaving a seamless, radiant sheen behind. The finish is incredibly refined—almost airbrushed—and gives that same glossy highlight style but with a softer, more sophisticated feel. It performs like a high-end liquid luminizer in powder form and never looks heavy or chalky.

Both highlighters deliver that “lit from within but glazed in the best way” finish, and each one has something special to offer. Catrice is the unbeatable budget icon, while Rare Beauty brings the silky, ultra-natural glow. No matter which you choose, your cheekbones will be shining in the best way possible. Let me know which highlighter you’re obsessed with right now!